A successful microgranule starter fertiliser already in use on 600,000ha overseas has been launched in the UK by Kent-based JS Tech.
Super Start provides essential nutrients immediately to the developing plant. As well as phosphorous (35 per cent) and nitrogen (10 per cent), it contains sulphur (5 per cent), zinc (2 per cent) and magnesium (2 per cent) to encourage root development and boost establishment.
Placed next to the seed as it is drilled, the microgranule formulation has about 300 times the surface area of conventional fertilisers, ensuring a faster release and quick availability following autumn or spring sowing.
Super Start is already used in several European countries, including France, Germany and The Netherlands, as well as Latin America. Currently more than 15,000t is produced annually in Serbia by Elexir Zorka.
JS Tech is expecting substantial interest, initially for maize, potatoes and OSR, according to the company’s managing director, Simon Stell, although spring cereals, vegetables and sugar beet will also benefit.
“Super Start is very popular particularly with maize growers,” he said, “where the wide rows make taking the fertiliser to the seed especially effective. Whatever the crop, applying fertiliser as you drill is highly efficient.
“Not only is it placed right there where it’s needed, but it also saves the cost, labour and logistics of a separate spreading operation. With more unpredictable weather conditions, getting crops established quickly and strongly has never been more important.”
For more information visit: www.jstech.co.uk.
